Istria is one of the most frequently visited regions in Croatia. Mild climate, fresh air and clean seawater provide an active vacation in Istria all year round.
The natural features of Istria are numerous, of which Ucka Mountain, Brijuni Archipelago and the Limski Channel stand out.
The Brijuni Archipelago is located in front of town of Pula. It consists of fourteen islands, just over seven square kilometers total. Their coastline is exceptionally indented and they are covered with evergreen vegetation. They have been inhabited since Roman and Bizantine times, as testified by numerous architectural remains and mosaics. Brijuni National Park consists of sea surface with well-preserved sea life.
Ucka is a Mountain with two faces - forested east and karst west. When the weather is clear, there is an unforgettable view of the land and the sea from the 1400 m high mountain top.
The Limski Channel is a hydro-morphological phenomenon, created after the Ice Age. Its south side is overgrown with deciduous trees, while the north side is rich in evergreen trees. Since Limski Channel is full of fresh water springs, the sea surface is abundant with different species of fish, which spawn in the Channel, while shells have been artificially cultivated for a long time now.
Other natural attractions in Istria include the Raški Bay and the Motovun Forest in the Mirna Valley, one of the rare places with common oak growing in the littoral.
Wine production and olive growing are Istrian tradition - wine and olive oil are important ingredient in Istrian cuisine, as well as in Mediterranean cuisine. According to people of Istra, wine is the source of health, love and culture. Red soil and sea vicinity give wine a special flavor, color, and taste. Istra has been producing olive oil for centuries. It is distinguished by its greenish color and bitterish essence. It is a must for a healthy diet. There are many roads of olive oil and wine in Istria.
